Verified by 
When I decided to pursue my Ph.D. in clinical psychology years ago, one thing that was a little dreadful was the thought of opening my own practice. Therefore, once I completed my degree and post-doctoral training I made a conscious effort to work in a medical setting where I could practice and serve diverse groups. Since becoming a licensed clinical psychologist, I have grown as a clinician and my career has taken on a path of its own.
A new book titled “How We Build Our Dream Practice: Innovative Ideas for Building Yours” by Dave Verhaagen, Ph.D. and Frank Gaskill, Ph.D. provides an excellent resource on how to manage your thoughts and fears about jumping into independent practice. After reading this book, it has sparked my interest in the possibilities of how I can impact my community though helping individuals and families cope with life stressors.
Below are some key points to consider when starting a practice:
1. Define your practice by your passion
First, Drs. Verhaagen and Gaskill discuss how it is important to consider your passion for psychology and practice. Why do you desire to start a practice? In their opinion, this is the starting point that will guide you to determine what you essentially need to incorporate into your business. What works for others in their practice may not work for you and the people you want to serve.
2. Think big to be successful
With any business there is a risk but also the possibility of great potential. In “How We Built Our Dream Practice”, the authors state that when deciding to start your practice you should “think abundance”. In essence, they suggest you should think big and “create something special and unique”. Some of your ideas will be a success and others may not work out long term.
3. Develop your niche to stand out
Part of my anxiety about independent practice is “can I create a viable business?” In their book, Drs. Verhaagen and Gaskill make an excellent point about making yourself marketable, which may have lasting effects towards success. They suggest building a solid practice around your expertise. Open a practice where you can highlight your “niche”. They suggest: (1) take all referrals for which you are competent and (2) develop a short-and long-term vision; and process to develop your niche.
Overall, How We Build Our Dream Practice: Innovative Ideas for Building Yours” by Dave Verhaagen, Ph.D. and Frank Gaskill, Ph.D. is a good read on challenges and ideas for beginning your own practice. As I continue to think about my future endeavors, I will be continuing to write a series of blog post for psychologists and clinicians.
Copyright 2015 Erlanger A. Turner, Ph.D.
About the Author
Erlanger Turner, Ph.D. – often referred to by his clients as Dr. Earl – is a Clinical Psychologist in Houston, Texas. He is also an Assistant Professor of Psychology and teaches courses on clinical psychology and multicultural issues. Dr. Turner specializes in child and adolescent disorders, parenting, and psychological assessment. His research interests focus on psychotherapy use, mental health equity, and access to behavioral health services for youth. He has published articles in scholarly journals and in national media sources such as New York Times, and Washington’s Top News.
Visit my website for more information: www.drerlangerturner.com
Follow me on twitter @DrEarlTurner
Like me on Facebook www.facebook.com/drearlturner
Read my Psychology Today blog
